Eyeing the country: The Mpatikana hit song of 2011, was his entry point into the field of Ugandan music. Masaka-based 25-year-old Brian Ssekiwunga, aka SK Brian, shared his music journey with Brian Mugenyi.
When did you start singing?
In 2011. I was just 21 when I founded my Nova Show Entertainment group in Masaka.
Tell us about your education background.
I went to St Joseph Nabbingo Primary School , before joining St Stephen’s Secondary School, Bweyogerere, currently known as Good Shepherd SS for my O & A -levels. I later joined Makerere University where I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts in Social Science in 2011.
What kind of music do you do?
I do Rn’b, Afro Beat, reggae and ragga, dancehall. I don’t specialise in a single category due to the unpredictable changing nature in the industry.
What pushed you into music?
I loved music since my childhood. I started composing songs during my primary school days though they weren’t that impressive but on joining secondary level, my interest evolved the more. Due to financial constraints, I could not manage to record any of my songs but passion kept me going until I released my first single, Mpatikana.
Who are your parents?
My father died when I was four-years-old, and two years later my mother also passed on. I grew up with my brother John Magala whom has been there for me at all times.
How did your guardians feel about you taking on music?
My brother, who also doubled as a guardian never wanted me to be a musician because of the misconception he had about it. He was like the other people that looked at artistes as thieves, gangsters and irresponsible members of society.
Who is your best musician and why?
Jose chameleone. His songs are so inspirational, they convey messages, which I think every artiste should learn from.
What is your major area of strength?
My music is sensitising and captivating, but that doesn’t make arrogant like some artistes are. My fans are always my treasured bosses.
Who are the figures behind your career?
It’s solely my brother (John Magala). He has always stood by my side and consoled me in times when the things turn tough, though at first he didn’t want me to sing.
Who is your song writer?
To me, music is a gift. I write and compose my songs.
Tell us about your love life …
I am still single, but with time I will get hooked to someone.
Successful people have coaches, who motivated you?
Besides my little sisters, fellow artiste Eddy Kenzo has inspired me a lot.
What do you do besides music?
I am the manager of Vienna Guest House and Restaurant located in Masaka town.
Any new songs?
Among the many songs, I am working on a duet with Young Mulo.
Which Ugandan female artiste do you admire most?
Irene Ntale.
Which artist do you fancy to work with?
Irene Ntale of course. I would love to have a duet with her.
Have you got any musical awards?
I won the HiPiPo Music awards for the Southern Region in 2013 and 2014.
Any public appeals?
It’s my humble request that the media should also consider promoting upcountry talents.
Former altar boy
He once wanted to become a priest. The most memorable thing in my life is hen I was still in my primary school. I was devoted to becoming a priest and I served as a Catholic altar boy for many years. But suddenly, I lost interest in serving in the church when I was falsely accused of taking a sip of the altar wine and I chose to quit.
fruits, coffee, soybeans and cattle, but farmers failed to get curbs on subsidies and still lack access in markets, like the U.S.
